Developing new antibiotics targeting bacterial RNA regulation
Official title: R15 AREA: Optimizing allosteric modulation of noncoding regulatory RNA function
Funded at Ohio University Athens · NIH-10730685 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking for new ways to create antibiotics that can fight stubborn bacterial infections by targeting a special part of bacteria's genetic material, which could help us tackle the problem of drug resistance.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ohio University Athens NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Athens, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2019 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $453,000 |
| NIH project number | 2R15GM132841-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10730685 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from bacterial infections, particularly those caused by Gram-positive bacteria that are resistant to current antibiotics.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria or those who do not have bacterial infections may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on addressing the growing problem of bacterial drug resistance by exploring a novel approach to antibiotic development. It investigates the T-box riboswitch, a noncoding RNA that plays a crucial role in regulating essential genes in Gram-positive bacteria. The project aims to design allosteric modulators that can inhibit the function of this riboswitch, potentially leading to new antibacterial agents. By utilizing computational methods, the researchers will identify compounds that can effectively target this unique RNA structure, offering a fresh strategy in the fight against resistant bacterial infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new antibiotics that are effective against drug-resistant bacterial infections.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of targeting noncoding RNA for antibiotic development is relatively novel, previous studies have shown promise in using RNA modulation strategies for drug discovery.
Where this research is happening
-
Ohio University Athens
Athens, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hines, Jennifer V — Ohio University Athens
- Study coordinator: Hines, Jennifer V
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.